Initial results indicate that complete, life-size Erector Set or Lego Set for real technology can be built using stock steel and components

Lifetime design, modularity, simplicity, and ease of maintenance are key features

Initial results indicate that DIY kits - reconfiguarable from small tractors to bulldozers just like Lego Blocks - with interchangeable motors and power units - are a viable route to widespread adoption of the technology

Cost performance in the DIY scenario appears to be a factor of 10 improvement over the competition

Machine combines functionality of an agricultural tractor and a skid loader

Material costs for LifeTrac I were $4k ($500 engine, $2000 hydraulics, $1000 frame,$500 balance of system including used 16" wheels for $5 each)

To date, LifeTrac I has undergone over 4 years of field testing. Bucket work, CEB press power, backhoeing, power generator work, bale spiking, tree hole augering, disking, rototilling, soil pulverizing, and other uses were performed. During initial testing, the articulated joint cracked in half and was redesigned completely. Since then, there have been no mechanical problems, such that down time never lasted more than a few minutes due to ready ability to repair.

While long-term performance only will determine whether LifeTrac is worthy of its implied lifetime-design name - the results after 1 year of operation are promising. No visible leaks are to be found on any of the hydraulic motors and cylinders.

Hydraulic drive via a diesel engine reduces the mechanical complexity by eliminating the transmission-clutch-differential-drive train-steering-braking, and replacing it with hydraulic flow, valves, and hydraulic actuators that perform all of the above functions

Thus, power transmission components are decoupled and made modular

Hydraulic system is robust and flexible. It allows devices on and off the tractor to be powered using 3 sets of 12 gpm outlets.

Articulated steering is an effective means of performing short-radius turns

Articulated joint both rotates and moves side-to-side, keeping 4 wheels on the ground under all conditions

Pressure can be varied everywhere with adjustable pressure reliefs

Custom implements, such as soil pulverizer, and many others can be used with LifeTrac

PowerCube can mount on the quick attach of LifeTrac I for auxiliary power in case of engine failure

As of Sep. 2012, the turbo pump on the built-in diesel engine sprung a leak, and is an estimated $1000 fix. We can avoid this by simply putting a Power Cube on the back of this tractor. LifeTrac I did not have a separate Power Cube - but a built-in engine. Since then, our modular design evolved to Power Cubes as modular power units.